Multi-Protocol Serializer Architecture for Flexible Video Links

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional serializers require different internal structures for various video data transmission scenarios, limiting their flexibility and applicability.

Innovation Solution

A serializer is designed with an I2C controller, I2C command analysis circuit, system control circuit, low-speed and high-speed data conversion circuits, parallel-serial and serial-parallel conversion circuits, protocol analysis circuit, and I2S receiver, enabling it to receive and process video and audio data across multiple protocols and transmission modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If different internal structures are adopted for different video data transmission scenarios, then the serializer can handle various transmission paths, but the application flexibility and versatility are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication flexibilityVSAvoidinternal structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single serializer with multiple functional modules that can handle different transmission scenarios. The serializer includes video data processing circuits, audio data processing circuits, control command processing circuits, and configuration information processing circuits, allowing one device to perform multiple functions across different application scenarios without requiring separate specialized devices for each scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the serializer into distinct functional modules: video data processing circuits for processing video data, audio data processing circuits for audio data, control command processing circuits for I2C commands, and configuration information processing circuits. This modular segmentation allows each module to be optimized for its specific function while working together in a unified structure, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If the serializer processes I2C commands through the deserializer for distant configuration, then the serializer can be configured remotely, but the configuration process becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration easeVSAvoidconfiguration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by enabling the serializer to directly receive and process I2C control commands through its own control command processing circuits. The serializer can independently analyze control commands, extract configuration information, and configure itself without requiring the deserializer to act as an intermediary. This self-configuration capability eliminates the complex multi-step process of deserializer-mediated configuration and significantly reduces configuration time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the serializer supports multiple protocols and transmission modes, then it can be applied to diverse scenarios, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotocol compatibilityVSAvoidcircuit structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies merging by integrating video data processing circuits, audio data processing circuits, control command processing circuits, and configuration information processing circuits into a single unified serializer device. By combining these previously separate functional blocks into one integrated structure, the patent achieves multi-protocol support and diverse scenario compatibility while managing complexity through unified design rather than multiple separate devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11496706B2Serializer
Publication Date: 2022.11.08 LONTIUM SEMICON CORP
  • US11496706B2 patent drawing
  • US11496706B2 patent drawing
  • US11496706B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A serializer includes: an I2C controller, an I2C command analysis circuit, a system control circuit, a low-speed data transmission circuit, a high-speed data conversion circuit, a low-speed data processing circuit, a parallel-serial conversion bidirectional circuit, a serial-parallel conversion circuit, a protocol analysis circuit, a video data processing circuit and an I2C receiver. The serializer can receive the external control command from the external controller through the I2C controller, and can also receive the external control command and the internal control command through the parallel-serial conversion bidirectional circuit. In addition, the serializer can also receive the video data from the external video source through the serial-parallel conversion circuit, and receive the audio data from the external source through the I2C receiver. Therefore, the serializer in the present disclosure can be applied to both two application scenarios, which is more flexible in application.